A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens. When we look at something, light rays travel into our eye through the pupil and are focused through the lens onto the retina, a layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye. The lens must be clear in order to focus light properly onto the retina. If the lens has become cloudy, this is called a cataract. If your vision has become blurry, cloudy or dim, or things you see are not as bright or colorful as they used to be, a cataract may have developed in one or both of your eyes. Many people say that their vision with cataracts is similar to the effect of looking through a dirty car windshield. Visiting a cataract surgeon for a consultation is the best way to ensure that you can enjoy your life without hindered vision by getting the cataract surgery you may need.
As a cataract slowly begins to develop, you may not notice any changes in your vision at first. But as the cataract progresses, you may begin to find that it interferes with your daily activities. Performing a complete eye exam, Dr. Ambati can tell you whether a cataract or other problem is the cause of your vision loss. While cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss, especially as we age, they are treatable with cataract surgery in Eugene. Since most cataracts in Eugene and throughout the United States are part of the normal aging process, they cannot be reversed. There are no medications or eye drops that will make cataracts go away-surgery is the only treatment.
A cataract may not need to be removed right away if your lifestyle isn't significantly affected. In some cases, simply changing your eyeglass prescription may help to improve your vision. Contrary to popular belief, a cataract does not have to be "ripe" to be removed. However, once you are diagnosed with a cataract, your ophthalmologist needs to monitor your vision regularly for any changes.
Gradually, as cataracts progress, you may have symptoms such as:
The only way to know for certain if you have cataracts is to have a dilated eye exam (where your pupil is widened with eye drops). Dr. Ambati focuses on cataracts in Eugene, OR and throughout the world through his volunteer efforts. Through his work he has developed strategies and techniques to detect early signs of cataract development by looking at your eye's lens. Get a baseline exam at age 40 when early signs of disease and changes in vision may start to occur. Your ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) will let you know how often you should return for follow-up exams. At any point, if you have symptoms or risks for eye disease, see your Eye M.D. Because your risk for cataracts and other eye diseases increases as you get older, starting at age 65 you should see your Eye M.D. every year. A complete eye examination will rule out any other condition that may be causing blurred vision or eye problems. Early detection and treatment of cataracts is critical to preserving sight
Listen to Dr. Ambati's joint interview with Dr. Tom Miller on The Scope, the University of Utah Health Sciences Radio.
